Alright, let’s talk about syntax – that grad school word that makes you go, “Wait, what?” Teaching it can feel like trying to unravel a mystery, especially for SLPs dealing with students with language delays. But fear not, we’re here to simplify the chaos.

The Quirks of Teaching Syntax: So, you’ve got these kiddos with language delays, who score low on standardized tests like the CELF! (cue panic emoji) and you’re like, “Let’s tackle syntax!” But then you realize it’s like trying to herd cats – challenging, to say the least.

Strategies to Keep Your Sanity: One easy strategy, break down syntax into lessons! Simply come up with a syntax hierarchy. Yes, I know syntax is HUGE! I get it, so we’ll break it down into sections: like, verb phrases, prepositional phrases, clauses, simple sentences, complex sentences, compound sentences, etc. Pick one and create mini-lessons, starting with the simplest forms like progressively increasing the complexity.

Here’s one short simple sentence hierarchy to get you started:

• Subject-Verb Sentences: “Lisa Jumps”

• Subject + Verb + Object Sentences: “Lisa hugs Mike” (read more about SVO here)

• Subject + Verb + Direct Object + Indirect Object Sentences: “She gave him a gift”

• Subject + Verb + Prepositional Phrase: “He runs up the hill”

• Subject + Verb + Adverb Sentences: “He runs quickly”

So how do you do it? Tips for Survival:

1. How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time! The same applies here…break it down into bite-size pieces! Start by teaching each part of the sentence, like what is a subject, verb, etc.

2. Show how each piece fits together to make the sentence, subject + verb.

3. Get Visual: Stick figures, doodles, heck, even interpretive dance – whatever it takes to get those concepts to stick.

4. Practice Makes Less Confused: Throw in games, activities, and maybe a little friendly competition to keep things lively.

5. Take It Easy: Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is mastering syntax. Start simple, then crank up the complexity like a boss.

6. Embrace the Weirdness: Every student’s journey is unique, so don’t be afraid to get a little creative with your teaching methods.

Wrapping It Up with a Bow: Teaching syntax might sound scarier than a clown at midnight, but with our laid-back approach, you’ll be slinging sentences like a pro in no time.

Call to Action (Because Why Not?): Ready to ditch the grammar stress and embrace the syntax shenanigans? Swing by my teacher pay teacher store for some syntax mini lessons that’ll have you laughing while you learn. Better yet! sign up for my email list, and I’ll toss in a boho speech room banner – because who doesn’t love freebies? Let’s sprinkle some syntax magic together!